In:
Ocean Science, Copernicus GmbH, Vol. 9, No. 3 ( 2013-06-14), p. 561-572
Abstract:
Abstract. In this paper we document dense water formation throughout the Adriatic shelf and coastal area in January/February 2012, resulting in record-breaking densities observed during and after the event. The unprecedented dense water generation was preconditioned by a dry and warm year which resulted in a significant reduction of coastal freshwaters, superimposed on a long-term basin-wide salinity increase. The final event that triggered the dense water formation was an extended period of cold weather with strong and severe winds. Record-breaking potential density anomalies (above 30 kg m−3) were measured at several formation sites. Accumulated surface net heat and water losses in some coastal regions exceeded 1.5 GJ m−2 and 250 kg m−2 over 21 days, respectively. Excessiveness, importance of shelf-type dense water formation and effects on the thermohaline circulation and deep aquatic systems are discussed.
Type of Medium:
Online Resource
ISSN:
1812-0792
DOI:
10.5194/os-9-561-2013
Language:
English
Publisher:
Copernicus GmbH
Publication Date:
2013
detail.hit.zdb_id:
2183769-7
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